Nanotubes can be created by laser ablation of graphitic targets, arc discharge from graphitic electrodes, or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The most promising fabrication method for applications is CVD since it allows precise placement of nanotubes. In the CVD nanotube process, catalyst material is deposited onto a wafer and patterned by lithography. A hydrocarbon gas such as methane is streamed across the wafer at ~900 degrees Celsius. Nanotubes grow from the catalyst material.

Nanotubes have many exciting properties such as ballistic transport, a Young's Modulus greater than 1TPa, and a huge aspect ratio. However, applications of nanotubes are held back by fabrication problems. Chirality and position of tubes are very difficult to control.